New 4 inch Colorful iPhone Expected to Launch Spring 2016

Well, it looks like the evidence just keeps piling up that Apple’s working on releasing another 4 inch iPhone, similar to the 5s. KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo – who has been notoriously accurate for predicting Apple product releases in the past – issued a statement, saying that it’s entirely likely the revamped 4 inch phone will be available early next year.

The marketing behind the idea? Kuo speculates that Apple will try to reach a sector of their customer base that has been itching for an updated version of a 4 inch iPhone, and something a little more budget-conscious than the latest 6s.

It’s expected that the new phone will also feature the powerful A9 chip, as well as the same camera specs of its predecessor. Two to three new color options in a metal casing are anticipated, with the standard gold, silver, and space grey options available as well.

According to Kuo, the new iPhone will likely account for between 8-9% of iPhone shipments in 2016, with a price point roughly $150 lower than the current iPhone 6s prices to draw customers in. Given the 6s’s higher price point over the 6s, it’s not expected to outsell the latter, but the new 4 inch iPhone could recover the difference.

“While the new 4-inch iPhone may not catalyze shipments, it should still help mitigate slow seasonality for suppliers and a negative impact on share performance. This would also in turn raise investor awareness of the Apple supply chain.”

Kuo also stated that while the new iPhone 7 will most likely start appearing early next year, that it’s not likely to enter mass production until much later in 2016.